Royal Scandals Reignited: Latest Epstein File Releases Shake European Monarchies
LONDON/OSLO (February 2, 2026) — The final release of the “Epstein Files” by the U.S. Department of Justice has sent shockwaves through European royal houses, revealing new details of deep-seated connections between the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and high-ranking royals.
While some figures have long been associated with the case, the 2026 document dump has introduced fresh evidence of close friendships and problematic communications that have forced immediate palace reactions.
The Fall of the “Former Prince”: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
The most significant fallout continues to surround the man formerly known as Prince Andrew. Following the latest disclosures, the following has occurred:
- Titles Stripped: In late 2025, King Charles III took the unprecedented step of stripping Andrew of his remaining royal titles and the right to be called “Prince.” He is now known officially as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
- Buckingham Palace Invitation: Newly released emails from 2010—sent after Epstein’s first conviction—show Andrew inviting Epstein to dinner at Buckingham Palace for “lots of privacy.”
- Russian Connection: Files suggest Epstein offered to set Andrew up on a date with a “beautiful” 26-year-old Russian woman, an offer the former prince reportedly welcomed.
- Eviction: Andrew has been ordered to vacate Royal Lodge, his 30-room home near Windsor, as the King seeks to further distance the monarchy from the scandal.
Norway’s “Embarrassment”: Crown Princess Mette-Marit
In a surprising turn, Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has become a central figure in the 2026 releases.
- Personal Correspondence: The files contain over 1,000 mentions of the Princess, including emails where she refers to Epstein as a “soft-hearted” and “crazy friend.”
- Public Apology: Over the weekend, the Princess issued a statement expressing “deep regret” and admitted to “poor judgment” regarding her contact with Epstein between 2011 and 2014.
- Timing: The scandal hits at a sensitive time for the Norwegian Royal Family, as Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, faces unrelated criminal trials in Oslo.
| Name | Role | Nature of Mention |
| Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor | Former Prince (UK) | Hundreds of emails; alleged invitations to Buckingham Palace; witness allegations of misconduct. |
| Mette-Marit | Crown Princess (Norway) | Extensive personal email correspondence; admitted to frequent social contact post-2011. |
| Sarah Ferguson | Former Duchess (UK) | Referred to Epstein as the “brother I always wished for”; sought his advice for media interviews. |
